Archive for year: 2026
New General Manager Selected
Whatcom PUD is pleased to announce the formal selection of our incoming general manager, to take the helm with the retirement of current GM Chris Heimgartner at the end of June. With the passage of Resolution No. 898, the Commission has appointed Anthony Hardenbrook to take the role of general manager on June 1, 2026, leaving time for the two to work together through the leadership transition.
Mr. Hardenbrook’s career has been defined by leading complex utility and infrasturcture organizations through periods of growth, modernization and regulatory change. He brings with him decades of experience across electric generation and transmission, water, wastewater systems, district energy and capital construction. His experience encompasses public utilities, higher education, private industry and military service.
Mr. Hardenbrook was present for the signing of his contract at today’s commission meeting. “I am energized by Whatcom PUD’s long-term vision for water system operations, geothermal exploration, transmission expansion, broadband partnerships, and watershed protection,” he said. “The commission’s desire for a team culture and priority for employee development and wellbeing resonates with my style of leadership and represents a culture I want to be a part of.”
Mt. Baker Geothermal Project: Prefeasibility Resource Assessment Final Report
HERO (Hot Rock Energy Resource Organization) has prepared a Mt. Baker/Kweq’ Smánit Region Prefeasibility Geothermal Resource Assessment (Final Report – December 2025) for the Nooksack Tribe and Whatcom PUD. As outlined in our recently adopted Strategic Plan, our Board of Commissioners has identified the investigation of new clean energy sources of power as a priority. We are pleased to be working with the Nooksack Tribe in these efforts.
